What is a normal fetal heart rate?
The fetal heart rate is one of the main indicators of the well-being of a pregnancy. In the second and third trimesters, 120–160 beats per minute is considered normal. The rate changes with the activity of the fetus, and this is assessed on ultrasound by radiologist Lana Ezieshvili.
How does it change by stage?
- 6–7 weeks — the heartbeat has just appeared, ~100–120 bpm;
- 9–10 weeks — it reaches a peak, ~160–180 bpm;
- 2nd–3rd trimester — it settles at 120–160 bpm.
What do deviations mean?
Bradycardia (below 110) and tachycardia (above 160–180) require additional assessment. A brief change is often related to fetal movement and is normal; a persistent deviation, however, requires monitoring.
Conclusion
The normal fetal heart rate is 120–160 beats per minute. For an accurate assessment, book a visit with radiologist Lana Ezieshvili.
This information is for educational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.